With more than 1 million visitors traveling to Mackinac Island each year, a common question we get is, "How accessible is Mackinac Island for people with physical disabilities?"
Mackinac Island is about 3.8 total square-miles and does contain steep inclines, bluffs and stairs. However, we strive to ensure Mackinac Island is accessible to all our visitors regardless of ability. There are a variety of modifications available if you feel you may need assistance as you plan your next trip to Mackinac Island.
Mackinac Island Terrain
The 8.2 miles around the perimeter of Mackinac Island is mostly flat. This includes the downtown area and stores.
While the perimeter of Mackinac Island is flat, interior attractions sit on the many hills and bluffs of the Island. Horse-drawn taxis through Mackinac Island Carriage Tours are available if needed.
Accessibility on Mackinac Island Ferries
Your journey to Mackinac Island will most likely start with a ferry ride. Both Arnold Transit Co. and Shepler’s Mackinac Island Ferry are wheelchair and scooter accessible ferries. They have accessible parking available at both their Mackinaw City and St. Ignace locations.
For more information, call Arnold Transit Co. at 800-638-9892 or Shepler’s at 231-436-5023 or visit their websites before your journey to Mackinac Island.
Electric Scooters and Wheelchair Rental on Mackinac Island
Electric scooters and manual wheelchairs are available to rent at a variety of bike rental locations on Mackinac Island. It is recommended that you call ahead to reserve an electric scooter. There is no charge to bring your own electric scooter, power wheelchair, or manual wheelchair on the ferry and Mackinac Island has sidewalk curb cuts for easy accessibility.
Downtown Mackinac Island Businesses & Shopping
Because many of the buildings on Mackinac Island were constructed over 100 years ago, some have steps or narrow doorways limiting accessibility and easy entry into shops and businesses.
Mackinac Island Lodging Information
There’s a variety of accessible lodging options available for your stay on Mackinac Island. These Mackinac Island places to stay include resorts, hotels, inns, condos, B&Bs and more.
If you’d like to learn more about the accessibility of a lodging location, visit their website or call them for more information.
Mackinac Island Horse-Drawn Carriage Tours and Taxi
Mackinac Island has one accessible horse-drawn carriage. It is used for both the horse drawn carriage tours as well as the taxi service. It is highly recommended to call Mackinac Island Carriage Tours ahead of time to reserve the taxi at 906-847-3307.
Mackinac Island's Historic Fort Mackinac
Fort Mackinac is a Revolutionary War-era fort frequented by many visitors on Mackinac Island. It includes 14 restored buildings with themed exhibits as well as tours and live demonstrations. The south entrance includes a steep ramp and 27 steps leading to the top.
The most accessible entrance is on the north side, on top of a hill. A horse-drawn taxi can take visitors to the north side entrance, if needed. Mackinac State Historic Parks provides alternative services and programs for additional access to their attractions and exhibits.
Accessible Restrooms on Mackinac Island
Accessible restrooms are located throughout Mackinac Island and generally are open from May-October. Accessible public restrooms are located behind the Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau, across from the Arnold Transit Co. ferry dock. Also, the public restrooms within Mackinac Island State Park are all accessible. This includes restrooms at the Mackinac Island State Park Visitor’s Center, Arch Rock, British Landing, Huron Road Rest Area, Mackinac Island Airport and the privy at Fort Holmes.
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